Beyond The Wire Nears 900 Placements Despite Industry-Wide Challenges

The Beyond The Wire aftercare program successfully placed 100 retired racehorses in 2024, bringing its total placements to nearly 900 since its launch in the spring of 2017.

While the 2024 number reflects a decrease from 2023, Jessica Hammond, who administers the program on behalf of the MTHA and The Maryland Jockey Club, attributed the decline to limited availability at partner farms.

“The biggest reason for the drop was simply a lack of space,” Hammond explained. “For several months last year, we had nowhere to send horses. This wasn’t just an issue for Beyond The Wire, but a challenge for aftercare programs nationwide.”

To ensure long-term sustainability, the Beyond The Wire Board of Directors explored potential revenue-enhancing strategies at its January meeting. As part of these efforts, the Maryland starting gate fee was increased from $50 to $65, effective January 17, with a portion of the increase allocated to Beyond The Wire.

The MTHA, MJC, and other industry stakeholders remain committed to ensuring retired Maryland racehorses have the opportunity for a second career or a safe retirement through responsible aftercare.

For more information on Beyond The Wire or to support its mission, visit BeyondTheWire.org.